This is a website on the Life and works of Devendra Kumar Gupta – Devendra Bhai who was inspired by Inspired by the Gandhiji’s efforts for rural economy, Vinobaji’s Science for spirituality and mentorship of Dr Kumarappa’s efforts towards the economy of permanence.
(16th August 1925 – 31st August 1999)
“We need the encouragement and goodwill of such people who come from diverse directions and converge on the aim of making the world more egalitarian, humanistic and ecologically balanced by utilizing the tools of Science & Technology. They who wish to see a new day dawn where science is guided not by human avarice and competitiveness but by the spirituality expressed through Truth, Love and Compassion.”
- Dr. Devendra Kumar
Brief Introduction of Dr. Devendra Kumar
Devendra Bhai was a pioneering scientist, social reformer, and a visionary leader who was inspired by Gandhi, Kumarappa and Vinoba and dedicated his life to using science and technology as a tool for nation-building, particularly for Holistic & Integrated rural development. He believed that true progress could only be achieved when scientific knowledge was made accessible to the grassroots, empowering villages, artisans, and young minds to drive sustainable development. Throughout his life, he worked relentlessly to bridge the gap between research institutions and rural communities, ensuring that innovation served the people who needed it the most.
As a mentor to young scientists and social entrepreneurs, he nurtured a generation of thinkers and doers who carried forward his mission of inclusive development. He and his team of young scientists played a pivotal role in shaping policies, mobilizing communities, and creating platforms where science met society, whether through research, publications, grassroots initiatives, or national policymaking. His team of young scientists worked across diverse areas, including rural industries, renewable energy, traditional medicine, organic farming, education, and environmental sustainability.
Devendra Bhai’s life was not just about ideas but about action. He inspired, led, and transformed countless lives through his tireless efforts. His legacy continues to shape the way science and technology can contribute to the upliftment of rural India, ensuring a more equitable and self-reliant future for India.
Poem by Ramesh
बड़ा होकर करेगा यह बड़े-बड़े काम,
दिल लगाकर करी खूब इसने पढ़ाई,
मगर आखिर गांधी की राह पसंद आई,
काम करके बना बहुत बड़ा इंसान,
जीवन में कमाया भरपूर सम्मान,
पूरा वर्णन ना कर सकती मेरी वाणी,
पढ़ें कविता में संक्षिप्त प्रेरक कहानी,
मेरे जीवन का भी एक सुंदर भाग,
साथ काम करने का बना सौभाग्य,
उसी आधार पर ये लिख पाता हूं,
समझ आया मुझे वह बतलाता हूं,
वृत्ति रही आध्यात्मिक दृष्टि में विज्ञान,
समता सेवा साधना संवेदनशील इंसान,
जय जगत को मानते,चाह बने विश्व-परिवार,
व्यक्ति प्रकृति गांव को विश्व से जोड़ने को तैयार,
सत्य अहिंसा शांति करुणा व्यक्ति का निर्माण,
सबके जीवन से जुड़े अध्यात्म और विज्ञान,
विनोबा ने इंदौर में चुनें तीन इन्द्र,
देवेन्द्रभाई, महेन्द्रभाई, भाईनरेन्द्र,
गुरु जे सी कुमारप्पा शिष्य देवेन्द्र गुप्त,
जीवन सक्रिय सदा कभी ना रहे सुप्त,
माचला गांव में खोजी रचना की विधि,
दिल्ली आना पड़ा गांधी स्मारक निधि,
गांधी जन्म शताब्दी हुआ अद्भुत काम,
चंबल शांति प्रयोग में भी शामिल नाम,
वर्धा में मगन संग्रहालय को आगे बढ़ाया,
ग्रामोपयोगी विज्ञान केन्द्र दत्तपुर में बनाया,
राजघाट अहिंसा विद्यालय में रहे साथ,
गांव के निर्माण में भी रहा हरदम हाथ,
सहज सरल सादगी से भरपूर सहजीवन,
सोच विचार गहन अध्ययन चिंतन मनन,
अध्यात्म-विज्ञान से विचार समझाया,
जो मिला राह में अपना उसे बनाया,
अपनेपन की रही ऐसी गहरी मिशाल,
दिलो-दिमाग को रखा सदा विशाल,
ऐसे अपने वैज्ञानिक देवेन्द्र भाई,
जीवन भर में नेकी खूब कमाई,
अपन को साथ मिला यह है बड़ी बात,
देवेन्द्र भाई की स्मृति रहती हमको याद,
देवेन्द्र भाई की स्मृति को जय जगत सलाम,
देवेन्द्र भाई की स्मृति को जय जगत सलाम।
-- रमेश चंद शर्मा, दिल्ली
Tributes
Dr. M.S. Swaminathan (Renowned Agricultural Scientist)
'Devendra Bhai’s contributions to rural development through science and technology were pioneering. His work in integrating science with community well-being was ahead of its time. His legacy will continue to inspire generations of changemakers.
Anand Kumar (Founder, Academy of Young Scientists)
'As a mentor, Devendra Bhai was unparalleled. He had the unique ability to challenge us, push our limits, and yet support us unwaveringly. His vision for a self-reliant, knowledge-driven India was revolutionary, and we, as his students, continue to walk the path he illuminated.'
Vinoo Kaley (Sustainable Housing & Rural Development Pioneer on Bamboo)
'Devendra Bhai had the rare gift of seeing potential where others saw challenges. Whether it was renewable energy, rural infrastructure, or the empowerment of artisans, he found solutions that were practical and impactful. His thoughts continue to guide us.
